Alumni Demand Urgent FG Action to Avert ASUU Strike

The Association of Nigerian Universities Alumni has issued a stern warning of an impending crisis across the nation’s universities, calling for immediate Federal Government intervention to avert another disruptive industrial action.

Concluding its Special Bi-Annual Delegates Conference, the association also strongly advocated for the amendment of Nigerian University Laws to mandate the inclusion of Alumni Association Presidents on University Governing Councils.

The event, held from October 1-4 at Sa’adu Zungur University, brought together delegates from 36 member associations representing all six geopolitical zones according to a statement issued by the spokesman of the association, Suleiman Maccido.

In his address, ANUA National President, Professor Yakubu Ochefu, stressed the gravity of the situation.

He said, “Nigeria’s academic calendar cannot afford another disruption. We call on the Federal Government to prioritise negotiations with university-based unions and ensure lasting peace in the sector”. Related News

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The conference urged the Federal Government to proactively and comprehensively engage with university-based staff unions to sustainably address their concerns, stating that an “uninterrupted academic calendar is non-negotiable for national progress.”

As part of its demands, the ANUA demanded an urgent amendment of university laws to grant” statutory representation to Alumni Association Presidents on University Governing Councils. This is to ensure alumni experience is formally integrated into university decision-making.”

Recall that ASUU, in a strike bulletin sent to its members on Monday, urged them to prepare towards a two-week warning strike set to commence on October 13.

The planned strike follows a two-week ultimatum issued by the union last week, asking the Federal Government to address its unresolved issues, including the signing and implementation of the renegotiated 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement.

In the fresh memo to branches, ASUU National President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, lamented the government’s failure to provide any meaningful response to the union’s demands despite the ultimatum.